Dirt Bike vs ATV: 14 Pros and Cons

Dirt Bike vs ATV: 14 Pros and Cons

When looking at it at face value, ATVs and Dirt Bikes look very similar, almost cousins of each other. However, when you take a closer look, there’s a huge difference between these two sports. If you’re not quite sure what the differences are, don’t worry. We’re going to break it down. Dirt Bike vs ATV: 14 pros and cons you need to know.

Mostly, I recommend dirt bikes are easier to transport and more fun to master long-term. I recommend ATVs for someone who wants to use the vehicle as a hauling tool.

Dirt Bikes Are Safer than Quads

The death rate with ATVs is significantly higher than with dirt bikes. This is due to the weight of an ATV. If a dirt bike lands on you, you most likely will walk away with some injuries. However, if 1000-pound ATV tips on you, even though they’re more stable than a dirt bike, it can be lethal.

Quads Have a Longer Season

ATVs have a longer season than dirt bikes since dirt bikes cannot be ridden if there’s snow or ice on the ground. However, ATVs can be ridden during cold weather without any problems.

Dirt Bikes Cost Less than Quads

Typically, dirt bikes can cost at least $1000 to $200 dollars cheaper than an ATV, depending on the year. Overall, ATVs are more expensive since they require more during manufacturing.

ATVs Crash Less than Dirt Bikes

Because they’re easier to learn how to drive and use less speed, ATVs crash less than dirt bikes. However, when ATVs do crash, their crashes are more severe due to the weight of the ATV itself. If you’re not planning on going fast, an ATV is a better option.

Dirt Bikes Can Run on Single Track

ATVs simply cannot ride on the number of different tracks as dirt bikes can. Dirt bikes can ride o a single track, meaning they’re able to go through deer trails with ease. ATVs are unable to do so and need larger trails.

ATVs Are Easier to Learn

With five minutes of sitting on an ATV, you already know how to drive it. On a dirt bike, you’ll need much more time and practice to understand how it functions. Plus, the odds of you crashing are much lower on an ATV when learning how to drive it.

Dirt Bikes Are Easier to Haul

ATVs weigh a lot and dirt bikes don’t typically go over 200 pounds. You can pop your dirt bike in the back of your truck with ease. Whereas with an ATV, you need more equipment to get it to your riding destination.

Dirt Bikes Are More of an Adrenaline Rush

ATVs are a multi-functional vehicle. You can ride around and get dirty, or you can use it to haul things around. However, a dirt bike is where you get to unleash yourself and ramp up the adrenaline. You can jump off of the dunes and go fast. With a dirt bike, you’re able to ride them hard, they’re simply better for adrenaline sports.

ATVs are friendly for all sizes

ATVs, due to their weight, are able to support people of all shapes and sizes. Whereas a dirt bike can be uncomfortable for larger-set individuals. In addition, they’re typically more comfortable in general for people to ride.

ATVs Are More Functional

If you’re looking to hunt, camp, and cruise around, then an ATV is best suited for that. You’re able to carry heavy loads, haul carcasses, trees, and equipment with it. Dirt bikes are not designed for that and if you’re planning on carrying anything, it’ll have to go in a backpack. Thus, for heavy duty work, ATVs are ideal.

Dirt Bikes Weigh Far Less

A full-sized ATV can weigh around 1,000 pounds whereas a dirt bike is usually under 200 pounds. The size difference is massive and makes ATV generally harder to transport around with ease. In addition, their weight alone makes ATV more of a safety hazard in comparison to dirt bikes. As a dirt bike can be driven nearly horizontal without tipping, an ATV can crush someone if tipped.

ATVs Can Carry Passengers

Unlike a dirt bike, ATVs can actually carry passengers on the back. Though many ATVs are only designed for single-rider use, many people ignore that and allow a passenger on the back of them. Dirt bikes, on the other hand, are strictly single-rider bikes. You may be able to take small children for a slow ride on them, but that’s about it.

ATV is great for beginners

If someone is just starting out with recreational riding, then ATVs are generally more beginner friendly. Riders can start off at low speeds, learn to maneuver and gain an understanding of how to use it without injury. Dirt bikes are riskier for beginners who have not previous experience.

So Which Should You Pick?

Now that you know the differences, you’ll be able to narrow down what you’re looking for. If you want something more relaxed and leisurely, then you should opt for an ATV. Naturally, if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and to get dirty, then a dirt bike is your best choice.